Dear Members and Guests,

As we stepped into another new year with hope, the catastrophic news of the earthquake and loss of lives in Haiti is yet another blow to that spirit of optimism. The earthquake struck Haiti on January 12th 2010 and reduced its capital, Port-au-Prince to rubbles. New York Times reported this earthquake as the worst one in the region in 200 years. An earthquake of this magnitude would be a concern anywhere in the world, but it is particularly devastating for a country like Haiti that was already challenged by extreme poverty, political upheavals and poor infrastructure.

“We belong to the whole world, living not for ourselves but for others.” - Mother Teresa

Let us, as a community, do our part in helping this grieving nation rebuild their cities, their neighborhoods and their families. There are many ways to channel your collective goodwill. Some units of Herricks school district are raising funds for Haiti relief, so feel free to participate through your child’s school. You could also reach out to the people of Haiti by making donations through credible foundations like Clinton Bush Haiti Fund (http://clintonbushhaitifund.org/about.php) or the Red Cross (http://www.redcross.org)

Thank you for taking the time to read this and hope that you will donate to this worthwhile cause.

Jonai Singh
President
HIUS